Abstract

Key message points- There has been litigation in relation to the three types of harm associated with contraceptive implants: non-insertion, deep insertion and nerve injury.- Recommendations for safe clinical practice can be derived from analysis of legal cases and published case reports.- Nerve injury has invariably been caused by clinicians without upper limb surgical skills attempting difficult removals.- The launch of the updated single-rod implant (Nexplanon®) may hold the best possibility for harm reduction.- Litigation in relation to side effects can lead to the withdrawal of safe and effective contraceptive products, so reducing choice for women